Methocarbamol (Generic)

What is Methocarbamol?
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant. It is used to treat muscle spasms in a number of animal species.

Who is it for?
Methocarbamol is for dogs, cats, and other species as prescribed by a veterinarian.

What are the benefits?

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Used to relax muscles and reduce muscular spasms

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Controls the effects of strychnine and tetanus

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In cats, can be used to control effects of permethrin poisoning

How does Methocarbamol work?
Although the exact way Methocarbamol works has not been determined, it is thought to work at the level of the brain to reduce muscle spasms.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This medication is the generic of Robaxin and Robaxin V.

How is it given?
It is given orally. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have
difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. It generally needs to be given multiple times a day.

What results can I expect?
The effects of Methocarbamol can generally be seen within hours of giving the medication, however the effects are not long-lasting.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in tablet form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Robaxin

Pronunciation
Meth oh KAR ba mole

Common Drug Name
Methocarbamol

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Methocarbamol?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Methocarbamol. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet may be pregnant or is nursing.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Usually Methocarbamol has to be given multiple times a day to achieve its effect. Methocarbamol can cause sedation and may darken the color of the urine.

Who should not take it?
Methocarbamol is not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to Methocarbamol, or guaifenesin (an ingredient in many cough syrups). The safety of using Methocarbamol in pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) has not been determined.

Use with caution in working animals, as it may have sedative effects and cause extreme drowsiness.

What side effects may be seen when taking Methocarbamol?
The most common side effect is drowsiness. May also see weakness, stumbling, and incoordination. May also cause drooling and vomiting. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these side effects.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
An overdose generally causes extreme sedation, incoordination and loss of reflexes. In cats and dogs may also see drooling and vomiting. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Methocarbamol?
Consult your veterinarian before using Methocarbamol with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur. Sedative effects will be increased if used with other drugs that cause drowsiness.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.